Situated in the tidal stream of the Pentland Firth, a tidal race is present at both the north and south ends of the island, being minimal briefly at the turn of the tide. Between the races is a calm eddy which extends down-tide as the tide strengthens. The races are highly visible, with over-falls and whirlpools. Large swell waves can also be present, especially in bad weather conditions. When entering or leaving the eddies crossing the races, even large powerful vessels can be pushed off course, such is the demarcation between the relatively calm eddy and the fast-moving tide in the races.

Swona is about 1.25 miles (2.0km) long by about 0.5 miles (0.8km) wide, with a maximum height of approximately 41 metres (135ft) and an area of about 92 hectares (0.36sqmi). It is made up of Old Red Sandstone with cliffs on the east coast.

How Things Are

Away i fall to youTo stay silent no moreAnyone with a clue wouldn't do as i've doneBut the fear that you know is the fear you become to loveI want to sayI want to goI'm so afraidTo be aloneAll right, it's time for the truthMy love means more than i ever willAnyone this confused needs someone show them the way toIf i just find the strength to forget myselfI want it allI want nothingI'm so afraidI'm so afraidI want to stayI want to goI'm so afraidTo be aloneIs this how my life is supposed to beIt's not enough, but too much for my heart to holdIs this how my life is supposed to be